A federal planning panel approved Donald Trump’s proposed White House ballroom Thursday, but construction remains stalled under a court order requiring congressional approval.
The National Capital Planning Commission voted 8-1 to greenlight the project, which would build a large ballroom on the site of the East Wing, formerly home to the first lady’s offices.
Trump welcomed the decision, saying on Truth Social the ballroom would be “the greatest and most beautiful of its kind anywhere in the world.”
A federal judge, however, ordered construction paused earlier this week, ruling the president must first secure approval from Congress. “He is not, however, the owner!” wrote Richard Leon.
Commission Chairman Will Scharf said the ruling does not affect the panel’s review and noted the court allowed time for an appeal.
The ballroom, a priority project for Trump, is intended to host large events such as state dinners. Trump has said the estimated $400 million cost would be covered by private donations.